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Brand names: Benicar HCT®

Chemical formula:

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• Cápsulas de loracarbef

Loracarbef capsules

What are loracarbef capsules?

LORACARBEF (Lorabid®) is an antibiotic very similar to the cephalosporins. It treats many kinds of infections including those of the skin (impetigo), respiratory tract (bronchitis, tonsillitis or pneumonia), sinuses (sinusitis), and ear (otitis media). Generic loracarbef capsules are not yet available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• kidney disease
• stomach or intestinal problems (especially colitis)
• other chronic illness
• an unusual or allergic reaction to loracarbef, cephalosporin antibiotics, penicillins, other foods, dyes or preservatives.
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take loracarbef capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. Take loracarbef 1 to 2 hours before or at least 2 hours after eating; taking it with food can make it less effective. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Loracarbef is regularly prescribed to children 6 months and older.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. There should be an interval of at least 10 to 12 hours between doses.

What drug(s) may interact with loracarbef?

• medicines used to treat or prevent blood clots
• probenecid

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking loracarbef?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if symptoms do not begin to improve in a few days.

If you get severe or watery diarrhea, do not treat yourself. Call your prescriber or health care professional for advice.

What side effects may I notice from using loracarbef?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• fever or chills, sore throat
• dizziness
• headache
• severe or watery diarrhea
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• skin rash, itching
• swollen joints
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual weakness or tiredness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• difficulty sleeping
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach pain
• vaginal itching

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out if the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store the capsules at room temperature, 15—30 degrees C (59—86 degrees F). Protect from heat. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 6/23/2003 11:29:00 AM

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.